John Deere 524 Snowblower Review: Is This Legend Worth The Cost?
You see a classic green and yellow machine listed for sale online or sitting at the end of a neighbor’s driveway. It’s a John Deere 524 snowblower, a machine with a reputation for being built like a tank. The problem is, you have no idea what a fair John Deere 524 snowblower price is, or if this vintage workhorse is a smart investment in 2025.
This uncertainty is a common issue for homeowners seeking reliable snow removal without the hefty price tag of a brand-new machine. You’re looking for value, durability, and performance, but the market for used equipment can be confusing and fraught with risk. This article will break down every aspect of the John Deere 524’s value, empowering you to make a confident and informed decision.
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Decoding the John Deere 524: More Than Just a Machine
The John Deere 524 is not just any old snowblower; it represents an era when outdoor power equipment was built with heavy-gauge steel and designed for longevity. As a two-stage snowblower, it uses a slow-turning auger to collect snow and a high-speed impeller to discharge it, making it effective for clearing significant snowfall, including the heavy, wet stuff left by city plows.
Understanding its origin is key; many of these models were manufactured for John Deere by Ariens, another brand synonymous with quality and durability. This heritage is a major part of its appeal and a key reason it remains a topic of discussion among enthusiasts and homeowners decades after it was discontinued.
The Core Question: What is a Fair Price in 2025?
Since the John Deere 524 is a discontinued model, you will exclusively be dealing with the used market. This means the price is not fixed but fluctuates based on a variety of factors. However, you can establish a solid baseline to determine if you’re getting a fair deal.
A reasonable price for a used John Deere 524 typically falls between $150 and $450. An exceptionally well-maintained, low-hour machine might fetch a bit more, while a unit needing significant repairs could be worth less than $100. The key is to know what to look for to accurately assess its position within this range.
The Factors That Drive the Price Up or Down
Several critical variables determine the final price of a used John Deere 524. Paying close attention to these details during your evaluation will protect you from overpaying for a machine that needs more work than it’s worth.
Condition: The Most Critical Factor
The overall physical and mechanical condition is the number one driver of price. Look beyond a simple coat of paint and inspect the machine for signs of wear and tear. Check for rust, especially on the auger housing, chute, and frame, as significant corrosion can compromise the machine’s structural integrity.
Tires should have good tread and be free of cracks. A machine that starts easily on the first or second pull (or with the electric starter, if equipped) and runs smoothly without excessive smoke is a strong indicator of a well-maintained engine.
Engine Health and Hours
Most John Deere 524 models came equipped with a 5-horsepower Tecumseh engine, a common and generally reliable powerplant from that era. While there’s no hour meter, you can gauge its use by the overall wear. Ask the seller about its history and maintenance record.
A compression test is an excellent way to determine engine health, but even a simple cold start can tell you a lot. If the engine sputters, knocks, or emits blue or white smoke, it could be a sign of expensive internal problems looming.
Geographic Location and Seasonal Demand
Where and when you buy matters. A John Deere 524 will command a higher price in the heart of the Snow Belt in late autumn than it will in a southern state during the spring. Be patient and shop during the off-season (spring and summer) to find the best deals, as sellers are often more motivated to negotiate.
John Deere 524 Specifications at a Glance
Understanding the machine’s capabilities is essential. While specific details can vary slightly by production year, the core specifications provide a clear picture of what this snowblower is designed to handle.
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine | Typically a 5 HP Tecumseh 4-cycle engine |
| Clearing Width | 24 inches |
| Intake Height | Approximately 20-21 inches |
| Drive System | Friction disc drive |
| Speeds | Multiple forward and reverse speeds (e.g., 6 forward, 2 reverse) |
| Starter | Recoil start, with electric start available on many models |
| Construction | Heavy-gauge steel auger housing and frame |
| Chute Control | Manual crank for rotation, manual lever for deflector angle |
Beyond the Sticker Price: The True Cost of Ownership
The purchase price is just the beginning. To truly evaluate the value of a John Deere 524, you must consider the total cost of ownership. This includes immediate maintenance needs, the availability of parts, and its long-term reliability.
Immediate Maintenance and Potential Repairs
Assume any used snowblower will need some immediate attention. Budget for a basic tune-up: a new spark plug, an oil change, and fresh fuel. The carburetor may need cleaning or rebuilding if the machine runs rough, a common issue for equipment that has sat with old fuel.
Inspecting wear items is critical. Check the condition of the auger and drive belts, the friction disc, and the scraper blade. Knowing the proper oil type for a snow blower and other maintenance fundamentals is crucial for ensuring the longevity of your investment.
Finding and Affording Replacement Parts
While the 524 is discontinued, many common parts are still available. John Deere dealers can often source parts, and because many of these units were built by Ariens, some parts are cross-compatible. Belts, shear pins, spark plugs, and carburetor kits are generally easy to find online.
However, model-specific cosmetic or structural parts, like a unique bracket or a specific handlebar design, can be much harder to locate. This makes a thorough initial inspection for any cracks or breaks in the frame and housing absolutely essential.
Your Pre-Purchase Inspection Checklist: A Buyer’s Guide
Never buy a used snowblower without a thorough inspection. Use this checklist to guide you through a comprehensive evaluation, ensuring you don’t miss any red flags.
The Walk-Around: Frame and Housing
Start with a visual inspection. Check the entire frame for cracks, especially around welds and engine mounts. Inspect the auger housing for significant dents or rust-through. Ensure the scraper bar at the bottom is not worn down to the housing and that the adjustable skid shoes are present and functional.
The Heart of the Machine: Engine and Transmission
Always ask to start the machine from cold. A warm engine can hide starting issues. Listen for unusual noises like knocking or grinding. With the engine off and the spark plug disconnected, test the drive system by shifting through all gears and rolling the machine to ensure the wheels engage properly.
The Business End: Auger and Impeller
Check the auger and impeller. With the machine off, grab the augers and check for excessive side-to-side play, which could indicate worn bearings. Ensure the shear pins are intact. A broken shear pin is a simple fix, but it’s important to understand why it broke—it could be a sign of a major obstruction or a seized auger gearbox.
John Deere 524 vs. Modern Competitors
It’s important to weigh the old-school durability of the 524 against the features and technology of a modern machine. A new entry-level two-stage snowblower might cost two to three times the price of a used 524, but it comes with a warranty and modern conveniences.
Build Quality: Old vs. New
This is where the John Deere 524 truly shines. Its heavy-gauge steel construction is something rarely seen in consumer-grade machines today. If you prioritize a rock-solid build over bells and whistles, the 524 offers tremendous value.
Features and Ergonomics
Modern snowblowers offer features the 524 lacks, such as power steering, heated handgrips, and remote chute controls. These conveniences can make a significant difference in user comfort and ease of operation, especially when clearing large areas. You must decide if the trade-off in build quality is worth sacrificing these modern features.
Making the Final Decision: Is the 524 Right for You?
The John Deere 524 is not for everyone. Your mechanical aptitude, budget, and specific needs will determine if it’s a wise purchase or a potential headache.
Who Should Buy a Used John Deere 524?
This machine is ideal for the mechanically inclined homeowner who values durability and is comfortable performing basic maintenance. If you have a moderately sized driveway, appreciate robust construction, and want a powerful machine without a large financial outlay, the 524 is an excellent choice.
Who Should Look Elsewhere?
If you prioritize a warranty, modern conveniences like power steering, and want a machine that is guaranteed to be trouble-free, you should probably invest in a new snowblower. Those who are not comfortable with potential tinkering and repairs may find a used machine more frustrating than frugal.
Proper Storage and Off-Season Care
Properly storing your equipment is just as important as maintaining it. During the off-season, keep the snowblower in a dry location like a garage or shed to prevent rust and corrosion.
Organizing your outdoor space can be a challenge. When considering the best place to store your machine against a garage wall, you might also be tackling other home projects, such as figuring out how to hang things on vertical siding to maximize your storage options.
Winter preparation involves more than just your equipment. Just as you might notice your deck stain looks orange and needs attention before the snow arrives, your snowblower requires its own pre-season check-up to ensure it’s ready for the first storm.
Conclusion: A Timeless Workhorse with Caveats
The John Deere 524 snowblower price reflects its status as a vintage, yet highly capable, piece of equipment. It offers incredible value for the right person, delivering heavy-duty performance for a fraction of the cost of a new machine. Its legendary build quality means it can easily outlast many modern, lighter-duty alternatives. However, this value is contingent on a thorough inspection and a willingness to perform routine maintenance. By arming yourself with knowledge and a keen eye, you can acquire a dependable snow-clearing beast that will serve you for many winters to come.
